Herb Companion Planting

Trap Cropping & Pest Management

• Sometimes, when trying to protect one type of plant, another can be grown nearby that is more desirable to a particular pest. Nasturtiums, for example, grown under and around rose bushes will attract aphids and can be easily removed and burned should the infestation become overwhelming. Some plants exude chemicals from their roots, leaves and flowers that help repel pests from their neighbors. Among the most effective of these are anise, basil, bay, chives and oregano.

Nutrients, Growth & Flavor

• Herbs with taproots, such as dill and coriander, help bring nutrients like nitrogen to the soil surface where it is used by shallower-rooted crops like cabbage, lettuce and cucumber. Comfrey demands a fair amount of garden space but adds nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium, silica, potassium, magnesium and iron to the soil. Extra nutrients translate to extra growth and flavor for garden crops. Marjoram and tarragon are said to improve the flavors of herbs and vegetables.

Beneficial Insects

• Some herbs attract beneficial insects such as bees, lacewings, ladybugs and mantids to the garden. Lavender, sage, savory, basil and thyme are among the most sought after by these insects. Dill and parsley are favorites of hover flies and predatory wasps and the preferred homes of the beautiful swallowtail butterfly. Learn to identify these "good bugs" and plant enough herbs to share with them.

Experiment & Enjoy

• There are several books and charts on companion planting and many contradictions. Be prepared to test and find what works for you and your garden. Most companion plants are attractive enough on their own so nothing will be lost in the experiments. The general rule of thumb in choosing a companion plant is that if plants go well together in the cooking pot, they probably benefit one another in the garden as well. Dill does wonders for cucumbers; tomatoes and basil marry well and savory is perfect for beans.